POLICE have launched an investigation after five dogs and a fox died after being poisoned on a popular country road.

Dog walkers have been warned to keep their animals on a tight leash along Little Bull Lane in Waltham Chase following the spate of painful deaths.

Investigators do not know if the poison has been laid by someone targeting dogs in the area.

Grandmother Molly Smith, 81, who lives on the contaminated rural road, saw her cherished 11-year-old greyhound Sophie die an agonising death.

She said: "She was on a drip for three days and in a lot of pain. The vet did all she could, but Sophie was slowly dying and we didn't know why.

"I felt totally devastated afterwards. It was such a shock I was just stunned. Sophie was so lovely and gentle.

"If Sophie's death can do any good I want it to. I want people to know that they shouldn't be walking dogs down there."

Police have called in a government scientist to identify the source of the poison that struck down the six animals after walking on the lane.

The scientist took samples from the area and will analyse tissue from the body of one of the dead dogs.

Father of three Stuart Jones, 53, an air traffic controller lost his three-year-old dog Macy just three hours after walking along the lane.

He said: "She started foaming at the mouth and couldn't walk, we had to carry her. The vet saw her within 15 minutes but there was nothing he could do. She was extremely fit and healthy before this and was up to date with her vaccinations.

"I feel very empty and it makes you realise that life really is so brief, one minute you're there and the next you're not."

PC Brian Woodcock, investigating the poisoning, said: "We would appeal to anyone who lives in that area of Waltham Chase and has seen anything suspicious to contact us.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who has recently walked a dog in the area and it has taken ill or died unexpectedly. It would also be advisable if you are walking your dog in the area to ensure you keep them on a lead, so they do not wander off the path."

Anyone who thinks they have seen suspicious activity in the area or with a similar experience is urged to contact Meon Valley police on 0845 045 4545 or use the anonymous Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.